As a last resort, many arthritics will seek an overnight cure by drinking excessive amounts of lemon juice. It seems that centuries ago lemon juice was found to be beneficial for scurvy.
Simultaneously, it supposedly aided a number of persons with arthritic symptoms. The idea flourished and it was carried on as a rumour for nearly 300 years.
Starting in the 16th century, people tried to cure scurvy by taking about two teaspoonfuls of lime juice once a week. This was added to some solid part of the diet. When lime juice was not available, a fresh vegetable—like turnip or some greens—was tried as a substitute.
After this lime legend became widespread, it was suddenly changed to lemon juice. Instead of two teaspoonfuls a week, it grew to taking a glass of lemon juice per day. Then, four or five glasses of lemon juice were advocated—and not to fight scurvy but to “cure” arthritis. It didn’t work, not for arthritics certainly.
Speaking of scurvy, the ancient Romans believed that parsley alleviated the disease. The Dutch became convinced that sauerkraut would help them. The Moors also tried to overcome scurvy with lemon juice. The herb doctors in England attempted to cure it with watercress. North American Indians used a tea made from pine needles with “magic success.”

Hundreds of years have passed since scurvy was reported in the 16th century. Now, as recently as August 10, 1951, the Rochester (N.Y.) Democrat and Chronicle reported scurvy cropping up in Tallahassee, Florida—in the heart of the citrus industry.
In Florida, people who had all the citrus juice they wanted—growing in their own backyards— found themselves with the marks of scurvy. They had loosening of teeth, loss of appetite, pain in the arms and legs.
Is this the penalty for drinking citrus juice rather than eating the fruit in moderation? Does this mean that if your gums bleed, they will bleed even more from too much citric juice? Ironically enough, the answer to both questions is yes. And I’ll explain why in more detail as you read on. . . .
The myth which led to the use of lemon juice for arthritis has gained in popularity. Today, many crippled and maimed arthritics use it in frightening quantities, all to no avail. To those who think this juice does help, look at the way your skin and body are drying out. Evaluate the damage you have done yourself. Look at the colour of your hair. Is it becoming grey prematurely?
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